Little Known Black History Fact: South Carolina Colored State Fair

Until 1964, the South Carolina State Fair was a ‘whites only’ event. As a result, the black community took part in the South Carolina Colored State Fair one week later. The ‘colored’ event was sponsored by the Colored State Fair Association.The segregated fair was in existence from 1908 to 1964, which marked the legal ban of segregation.

The Colored State Fair was the place where the best agriculture presented by black farmers was put on display. Its largest attraction was the ferris wheel. The crowd enjoyed marching band competitions, fireworks, rides and livestock competitions. There was also a draw to see the “hootchie-cootchie” girls, who performed in a covered tent, special for those who were mature enough to attend.

The South Carolina Colored State Fair was billed as the “greatest event for Negroes in the state.”